Thomas H. Kean

Kean Urges New DHS Secretary Mullin to Take "Deeper Look" at Proposed Roxbury Facility

Position: Congressman Kean urges the DHS Secretary to conduct a thorough review of a proposed ICE processing facility in Roxbury Township, New Jersey, and to engage meaningfully with local officials who have raised concerns about fiscal impact, public safety strain, and infrastructure adequacy. He advocates for greater federal-local coordination in the decision-making process.

(April 7, 2026) WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin urging a thorough review of the Department’s proposed processing facility in Roxbury Township, New Jersey. In his letter to the newly confirmed Secretary, Congressman Kean called for meaningful engagement with local officials who have raised concerns about the facility’s impact on their community. Congressman Kean wrote, “I respectfully request that the Department take a deeper look at the proposal and give careful consideration to the concerns raised by local officials, while working collaboratively with multiple levels of government to identify the most appropriate path forward.” Local elected officials have identified several concerns about the proposed site, including a loss of municipal tax revenue, operational strain on local public safety services, and the adequacy of utility infrastructure. In light of their concerns, Congressman Kean is pressing for greater communication between DHS and Township leadership as the Department moves through its decision-making process. Kean continued, “A high level of coordination between federal officials and local leadership would be hugely beneficial in addressing outstanding questions and ensuring that decisions are informed by on-the-ground realities.” In February, Congressman Kean introduced the Local Taxpayer Protection Act of 2026, federal legislation to ensure that local taxpayers and municipalities like Roxbury, New Jersey, are not left shouldering the costs associated with hosting federal law enforcement processing or detention facilities. Information on the bill can be found HERE. Read the full letter below and HERE. Dear Secretary Mullin: Congratulations on your recent nomination and bipartisan confirmation. It was a pleasure working with you during your service in the United States Senate, where you consistently sought to build bipartisan consensus and advance meaningful policy solutions designed to stand the test of time. I look forward to continuing that work as you lead the Department in addressing complex security threats and challenges facing our country. I write regarding the proposed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) processing facility in Roxbury Township, New Jersey, within my district. I respectfully request that the Department take a deeper look at the proposal and give careful consideration to the concerns raised by local officials, while working collaboratively with multiple levels of government to identify the most appropriate path forward. Roxbury’s elected leaders have expressed several concerns related to the proposed facility. These include the projected fiscal impact associated with the federal acquisition of the property, which local officials indicate could result in a loss of municipal tax revenue, placing additional burden on local taxpayers. Township officials have also cited increased operational strain on local public safety services, including the Township’s police department, volunteer fire and rescue personnel. In addition, local leaders have raised questions regarding site suitability, including the adequacy of utility infrastructure, environmental constraints and zoning considerations. It is important that these local considerations are comprehensively evaluated as part of the Department’s decision-making process.  Since December 2025, I have been actively engaged on this issue on a daily basis and in consistent communication with senior officials at the Department of Homeland Security to ensure that Roxbury’s concerns are clearly conveyed and carefully reviewed. I will continue to serve as a conduit for constructive dialogue so that all perspectives are understood. A high level of coordination between federal officials and local leadership would be hugely beneficial in addressing outstanding questions and ensuring that decisions are informed by on-the-ground realities. My priority is to ensure that any decision is the result of a thoughtful and balanced approach that considers law enforcement’s operational necessities alongside the interests of the local community. I remain fully committed to working with you and the residents of Roxbury to identify a workable solution. Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your continued commitment to thoughtful, collaborative engagement. Sincerely, Thomas H. Kean, Jr. Member of Congress ###

Congressman Kean Introduces Bill to Sanction Rosatom, Russia’s State Nuclear Energy Corporation

Position: Congressman Kean supports imposing sanctions on Rosatom, Russia's state nuclear energy corporation, to reduce Western reliance on Russian nuclear energy and cut off revenue supporting Russia's war in Ukraine.

(March 27, 2026) WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) announced the introduction of the Rosatom Energy Sanctions Compliance and Unified Enforcement (RESCUE) Act, legislation that would impose sanctions on Rosatom, Russia’s state-owned nuclear energy corporation, and cut off a key source of revenue fueling Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine. “We must stop Russia from using Rosatom as a tool of influence around the world,” said Congressman Kean. “This legislation turns off the spigot on Russia's nuclear energy revenue and works to end Western reliance on the Russian nuclear sector. The United States and our allies must not continue financing Moscow’s aggression.” The RESCUE Act would impose sanctions on Rosatom, its subsidiaries, and affiliates. It also requires the President to develop a strategy for helping U.S. allies find alternative nuclear energy supplies and permanently reduce their dependence on Russia. The bill works to revitalize the nuclear energy industry in the U.S. and partner countries, creating jobs and filling the supply gap left by malign Russian actors. Congressman Kean serves on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Since joining Congress in 2023, he has been a steadfast advocate for the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom. In 2023, the Russian Foreign Ministry sanctioned Congressman Kean for his unwavering support of Ukraine. Text of the RESCUE Act is available HERE. ###

Kean, Gottheimer Introduce Resolution Raising Awareness for Rare Genetic Disorder, Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome

(March 20, 2026) WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) and Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) introduced a bipartisan resolution designating November 7 of each year as National Shwachman Diamond Syndrome Awareness Day. Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (SDS) is a rare genetic condition affecting an estimated 2,000 Americans that impairs the body’s bone marrow, pancreas, and skeleton, and can lead to an increased risk of blood disorders including acute myeloid leukemia. “For those living with incredibly rare conditions like SDS, shining a spotlight is the first step toward promoting research and advancing treatment,” said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. “Joyce Fitz, a Linden resident, has dedicated herself to fighting for recognition for her community, and when she came to my office with this idea, it was clear we needed to spread awareness on the national level. Every individual living with SDS deserves to have their daily fight recognized, and I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort to make that a reality.” “Families facing rare diseases like Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome don’t have time to wait — and neither can we. We must boost funding for research and strengthen and expand clinical trials,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer. “I am proud to fight for this bipartisan and commonsense legislation. Families can't wait. We have a responsibility to push forward until we deliver real hope — and ultimately, a cure.” “As a young advocate living with Shwachman Diamond Syndrome I know what it means to face a rare disease with no cure and limited treatment options,” said Joyce Fitz. “Patients and families tackle the daily burdens of complex medical care and uncertainty living with a condition most medical professionals have never even heard of. “It means the world to me that when I spoke up for my SDS community, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. truly listened and chose to stand by me on this journey towards bringing national recognition to this disease. Establishing a National Shwachman Diamond Syndrome Awareness Day is the first step to ensure my community is seen, while bringing us one step closer to the research, treatments, and ultimately a cure that patients are waiting for,” Joyce added. Background: Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (SDS) affects an estimated 2,000 Americans, occurring in approximately 1 in 80,000 newborns. Because the signs and symptoms of SDS can vary widely between patients, the condition is frequently under diagnosed and requires a combination of clinical evaluation, blood tests, and genetic testing. While treatments exist to manage symptoms and treat complications, there is currently no cure and SDS can shorten life expectancy. The push for a national awareness day was driven by Joyce Fitz, a 17-year-old advocate from Linden, New Jersey and current senior at the Union County Academy of Allied Health and Sciences. Joyce was diagnosed with SDS after 19 months of seeking answers. For years, she has navigated bone marrow biopsies, specialist appointments, and the daily realities of living with a complex, immunocompromised condition. Joyce chose November 7 as the awareness date to celebrate the month the disease was first identified in 1964 and the most common gene mutation (7q11) associated with SDS. A similar resolution was also introduced in the New Jersey State Assembly earlier this year. Congressman Kean is a member of the Congressional Rare Disease Caucus and serves on the Health Subcommittee of the House Energy & Commerce Committee. The full text of the resolution can be viewed HERE. Image

Kean Advocates for Robust Amtrak Service to Trenton, Metropark along Northeast Corridor

Position: Representatives Kean, Malliotakis, and Fitzpatrick urge Amtrak to maintain and expand Acela and Northeast Regional train service to Trenton Transit Center and Metropark stations, citing constituent reliance on these services and anticipated ridership increases from major 2026 events.

(March 5, 2026) WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) announced that they sent a letter to Amtrak President Roger Harris urging robust Acela and Northeast Regional train service to Trenton Transit Center (TRE) and Metropark (MET) ahead of a historic year for the region. In their letter to the President of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak), the lawmakers highlighted the critical role both stations play as connection points to the Northeast Corridor for communities across North, Central, and South New Jersey, as well as parts of Southeast Pennsylvania and Staten Island. They noted that since the September 2023 schedule update, Trenton has been left entirely without Acela service (making it the only state capital on the Acela line without a dedicated stop), while Metropark has seen a decrease in daily stops by both Acela and Northeast Regional trains. The Members also pointed to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final and the Nation's Semiquincentennial as events expected to drive significant ridership increases between Philadelphia and New York City this year, with millions of visitors anticipated across the region. “Our constituents rely on Amtrak services for regular commutes and other travel,” the lawmakers wrote. “As the rollout of the Next-Gen Acela trainsets continues and as these high-profile events approach, we request that you ensure Trenton and Metropark are adequately served in the face of this anticipated ridership growth, including by Acela trainsets.” Read the full letter below and HERE: Dear Mr. Harris, As Members of Congress representing communities served by the Northeast Corridor, we write in support of robust Acela and Northeast Regional train service to key points in the New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania region. Our constituents rely on Amtrak services for regular commutes and other travel. Stations like Metropark (MET) and Trenton Transit Center (TRE) serve dense constituencies and economic drivers. These stations are the nearest direct access to the Northeast Corridor for communities in broad swathes of North, Central, and South New Jersey, as well as parts of Southeast Pennsylvania and Staten Island. Located in New Jersey’s state capital, Trenton serves tens of thousands of yearly commuters and visitors to state government and surrounding areas, while Metropark provides direct access to the Garden State Parkway, New Jersey Turnpike, and other major thoroughfares. This year, our region will serve as host to both the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final and events related to the Nation’s Semiquincentennial, attracting millions of visitors in what is anticipated to be a record year for tourism. Events commemorating America's historic revolutionary battles will draw visitors throughout New Jersey and the Northeast, while celebratory events surrounding the World Cup promise to bring substantial increases in ridership to points between matches in Philadelphia, PA and New York City, N.Y. Unfortunately, since the September 2023 schedule update, Trenton has been entirely without Acela service, while Metropark has seen a decrease in daily stops by both Acela and Northeast Regional trains over the same timeframe. We appreciate and welcome any efforts to improve reliability and service, especially in the wake of the cascading service disruptions seen in the summer of 2024. However, these changes should not come at the expense of service to these important population and economic hubs. Decreased service to Trenton and Metropark risks distancing the government, residential, and tourism hubs they serve from access to the Northeast Corridor, and the cancellation of Acela service to the historic city of Trenton leaves it as the only state capital on the Acela line without a dedicated stop. As the rollout of the Next-Gen Acela trainsets continues and as these high-profile events approach, we request that you ensure Trenton and Metropark are adequately served in the face of this anticipated ridership growth, including by Acela trainsets. Thank you for your partnership in ensuring that communities in our region of the Northeast Corridor enjoy regular and reliable Amtrak service in 2026 and into the future. Sincerely, Thomas H. Kean, Jr., Nicole Malliotakis, and Brian Fitzpatrick ###

Kean, Landsman Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Deliver Financial Relief to Renters

Position: The release advocates for the Tax Relief for Renters Act, which would allow renters to claim an annual income tax deduction of up to $4,000 for rent paid on their primary residence, subject to income limits. The sponsors argue this measure would provide financial relief to renters facing rising housing costs.

(March 3, 2026) WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) and Congressman Greg Landsman (OH-01) introduced commonsense, bipartisan legislation to provide financial relief to millions of American renters. Representatives Kean and Landsman introduced the Tax Relief for Renters Act, which would put more money back into the pockets of Americans by allowing renters to claim a deduction of one month’s rent on their personal taxes each year. “Housing, a basic necessity, is way too expensive. New Jersey families who rent are facing costs that continue to outpace paychecks, stretching household budgets thin,” said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. “I'm glad to lead the bipartisan effort to give hardworking families more financial breathing room by allowing them to deduct a month of rent from their tax bill.” “Renters need relief, and right now, folks cannot keep up as rent is rising faster than wages in Southwest Ohio and across the country,” said Congressman Greg Landsman. “Our bill will help ease the burden on families to afford their everyday expenses or save for a home.” More than 22 million renter households are spending over 30 percent of their income on housing costs. To help alleviate this financial burden, the Tax Relief for Renters Act would allow renters to claim a personal income tax deduction of up to $4,000 annually for rent paid on their primary residence. To be eligible, taxpayers’ income cannot exceed $125,000 for married couples filing jointly, $80,000 for heads of households, or $75,000 for individuals. Congressman Kean has also championed efforts to address homeownership affordability in the U.S. House of Representatives. In January 2026, he introduced the Make American Housing Affordable Act, legislation that would establish a new tax credit for Americans purchasing their primary home. He also led the fight to restore the full State and Local Tax (SALT) Deduction for middle-class families. In the 2025 Reconciliation package, Congressman Kean fought to quadruple the SALT deduction to $40,000, delivering a major victory for New Jersey homeowners. The full text of the Tax Relief for Renters Act can be found HERE. ### Issues:Economy

House Passes Kean's Bill to Accelerate Broadband Deployment to Rural and Tribal Communities

(March 3, 2026) WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5419, the Enhancing Administrative Reviews for Broadband Deployment Act, by unanimous voice vote. Introduced by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) in September 2025, this legislation will make meaningful progress towards connecting rural and Tribal communities to high-speed internet access by identifying and addressing key regulatory barriers. The bill now moves to the Senate for further consideration. “I am pleased to see my bill pass the House of Representatives. Bridging the digital divide requires cutting through bureaucratic red tape, inefficiencies, and delays, and this legislation does just that,” said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. “By addressing key regulatory barriers, prioritizing staffing to process permits, and improving interagency coordination, we can take real steps forward in ensuring affordable, reliable connectivity for our communities.” Chairman Bruce Westerman of the House Committee on Natural Resources said, “Rural and tribal communities often face unnecessary burdens in obtaining reliable internet access. The Enhancing Administrative Reviews for Broadband Deployment Act will identify and address regulatory barriers to make broadband access a reality for all Americans. I applaud Rep. Kean for ensuring that meaningful progress is made towards getting rural and Tribal communities online.” Specifically, H.R.5419 directs the U.S. Department of the Interior and U.S. Department of Agriculture to conduct a comprehensive review of administrative barriers that delay the review of communications use authorizations. Within one year, the agencies must report to Congress with their findings and submit a plan to provide adequate staffing to ensure timely permit reviews. The bill addresses a critical bottleneck in broadband deployment: the permitting process for placing communications infrastructure on the millions of acres of federal land, particularly in rural areas where expanding coverage is most needed. Watch Congressman Kean speak on the House floor in support of his bill HERE. Congressman Kean serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Communications and Technology Subcommittee, where he works on issues related to broadband access, telecommunications policy, and emerging technologies. The full text of the bill can be found HERE. ### Issues:Infrastructure